VW sales fall as diesel scandal drags on

March 0202:432016

The Volkswagen brand saw a drop of 13.2% in sales last month as it continues to reel from the inability to sell its diesel car models due to the scandal over emissions. Volkswagen of America reported sales of 22,321 units delivered in February, down from 25,710 for the same month last year.

About 20% of Volkswagen’s sales typically came from sales of its diesel models. But late last year, the German automaker disclosed that it rigged cars to beat emissions testing. The scandal initially encompassed cars with 2-liter diesel engines, but the the Environmental Protection Agency and California Air Resources Board also cracked down on VW for having “defeat devices” on its 3-liter diesels as well.

While those issues are resolved, the diesel models are not being allowed to be sold. Against that backdrop, VW did have some bright spots in Feburary. It says its small SUV, the Tiguan, set a Februrary sales record for the month with 3,245 vehicles delivered, up 78.4% from the year before. VW also sold 198 of its electric cars, the e-Golf, about 100 more than a year ago.

“We were pleased to see increased retail sales at our dealerships in February, supported by vehicles like the Tiguan,” says Mark McNabb, VW’s chief operating officer in the U.S. “Even though overall sales were down due to seasonal fleet business, we are encouraged by showroom activity this month.”